Explore Australia's Far North: The Savannah Way Road Trip Guide | Lets Go Caravan and Camping

Explore Australia’s Far North: The Savannah Way Road Trip Guide

Category: Inspiration, MDRTNT, Date: 24 June 2024

Now is the perfect time to explore the Northern Territory! With the Million Dollar Road Trip campaign running from May to September, your NT adventure could make you a millionaire. Don’t miss out—start your journey today! For more information, visit www.milliondollarroadtripnt.com.au. 

Experience the outstanding beauty of Australia’s far north with this epic outback road trip from Cairns to Darwin. The Savannah Way stretches 3700km from tropical Cairns all the way to Broome in WA, however, for this once-in-a-lifetime road trip adventure, we’re travelling from Tropical North Queensland to the Tropical Top End of the NT. Camp out under the clear, starry skies, explore the lush rainforests and discover UNESCO world heritage areas on this great trip.  

What are you waiting for? Discover something different in the far north this dry season! 

The Savannah Way 

This adventure through the eastern part of the Savannah Way covers roughly 3000km and offers an offers an unrivalled chance to explore the stunning natural wonders of northern Australia.  

Cairns to Undara (approx. 270km)

Starting in Cairns, the vibrant capital of Tropical North Queensland, head west to Undara. On your way you will pass some of Queensland’s most spectacular waterfalls – Millstream Falls and Tully Falls. Once in Undara, you have to explore the Undara Lava Tubes in the Undara Volcanic National Park. This park is home to one of the world’s longest lava flows from a single volcano, creating an incredible network of lava tubes and underground caves to explore!  

Undara to Cobbold Gorge (approx. 230km)

The next destination on your adventure is Cobbold Gorge – however, not before stopping at the Talaroo Hot Springs. These are one of outback Queensland’s most extraordinary geological wonders. Guests can enjoy the ultimate outback relaxation experience with a soak in these tranquil, natural waters.  

Onto another of Queensland’s incredible natural wonders, the Cobbold Gorge! At 10,000 years old, Cobbold Gorge is dubbed Queensland’s youngest gorge. This hidden outback oasis is truly breathtaking. Explore the rugged sandstone walls and discover the gorge through a range of exciting activities including stand-up paddle board, bushwalking, helicopter flights, kayaking and more. 

Cobbold Gorge The Savannah Way
Cobbold Gorge, Outback Queensland Credit: Tourism Australia

Cobbold Gorge to Karumba (approx. 460km) 

Continuing this exciting adventure, the next stop is the beautiful coastal town of Karumba. Karumba is known for its great fishing and delicious barramundi catch. While you’re here, head to the sunset tavern to witness one of the best sunsets in Tropical North Queensland.  

Karumba to Boodjamulla National Park (approx. 500km) 

Heading back inland from Karumba you’ll find Boodjamulla National Park, one of Queensland’s most beautiful reserves. Experience the vibrant river of green, rich emerald rainforest and majestic sandstone peaks. This park, sacred to the Waanyi people, even includes the world-heritage listed Riversleigh, one of the top 10 fossil sites in the world. 

Boodjamulla NP to Borroloola (approx. 560km) 

From QLD to the great NT! The next stop is Borroloola in the Northern Territory. This is a great fishing spot, perfect for a chill afternoon on your road trip. While you’re here check out the Old Police Station Museum and the Waralungka Art Centre to learn more about the area’s history and culture.  

If you fancy an earlier stop on this leg, check out the working cattle station, Seven Emu Station along the way. Another great fishing spot and you can even relax in campsite overlooking the Robinson River. 

Borroloola The Savannah Way
Borroloola at sunset Credit: Tourism Australia

Borroloola to Limmen National Park (approx. 104km)

From Borroloola, head to a hidden gem of the NT, Limmen National Park. Known for its great hikes and beautiful swimming holes at Butterfly Falls, this is must-visit. Don’t miss the stunning Lost City either, complete with magnificent pinnacles and clear, starry skies.

Limmen NP to Daly Waters (approx. 345km)

The next stop along the Savannah Way is an iconic NT landmark. Daly Waters historical pub is a charming outback stop along the Stuart Highway. Here you’ll find good food and a wide range of accommodation options including rooms, cabins and camping.

Daly Waters to Mataranka (approx. 170km)

Onwards and continuing north! The Mataranka Springs and Bitter Springs in Elsey National Park are must-do attraction along this adventure. Featuring thermal pools, crystal-clear waters and massive palm trees, this little tropical oasis is a luxury retreat on the Savannah Way.

Elsey National Park The Savannah Way
Thermal Pools at Elsey National Park Credit: Tourism NT

Mataranka to Katherine (approx. 108km) 

Getting into the final stages of this great outback adventure, head to Katherine where you will find the stunning Nitmiluk National Park and Katherine Gorge. Enjoy the beautiful swimming spots, take a helicopter ride or a boat cruise, and just take in the natural beauty of this NT gem. Don’t miss the Baruwei lookout for the most breathtaking views of the park. Other worthwhile attractions in the region include the Katherine Hot Springs, Katherine Outback Experience or a sunset dinner cruise.  

If you want to continue on the remaining Savannah way to Broome in Western Australia, you can head west from Katherine to Timber Creek, Kununurra and beyond. Otherwise, continue your journey north in the NT’s Tropical Top End!

Katherine to Darwin (approx. 318km) 

On the road to Darwin, make sure you stop at Litchfield National Park. Considered a ‘hidden jewel’ of the Top End, this attraction offers some of the most beautiful vistas and falls in the NT. Popular attractions include Florence Falls, Wangi Falls and Buley Rockhole.  

Moving onto the NT’s vibrant capital, in Darwin you can enjoy stunning sunsets over the Darwin harbour as well as exciting attractions such as the Crocosaurus Cove, Mindil Sunset Markets, Outback Tours and a wide range of food and accommodation.  

For more information, travel inspiration and great value deals, check out:

Tourism Top End

Explore the magnificent Northern Territory of Australia. Find information on exotic wildlife, wetlands, cruises and a lot more with Tourism Top End.

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